"The first referendum had to be held so the board knew people's thoughts on consolidation," Cosentino said. "Now we know it isn't wanted by the majority of voters and we can move forward."

The second referendum came at a time when "there was a lot of voter fatigue and backlash from the first referendum," she said.

Cosentino believes the urgency of work needed at Shepaug Valley School wasn't communicated at a time when residents were receptive.

"I've always felt that a high school is the jewel of any community," Cosentino said. "Shepaug has great aspects to its program. It's a really special place. And we have to relay that.

"I think the next time the question of funding is put before the voters, it will get a positive response."

Board vice chairman Alan Brown agrees. He faults the board and administration for concentrating too much on "selling the idea of consolidation" and not enough on relaying how they plan to work with the region's three towns to see that Region 12 not only survives but thrives.

"We really need to give the public a greater concept of what is needed and why," Brown said.

"We are working hard on securing the future of our region," he added. "Retreats are planned where the board will discuss plans with the towns' selectmen. Another long-range planning committee, likely comprised of board members, will be put in place."

Brown said the board is aware of the fatigue felt about school issues generally.

The first step in revitalizing the region came Monday night when the board slashed out-of-district tuition, cutting the figure in half as a way of luring students into the shrinking district. Tuition will be $7,500 starting with the 2014-15 school year.

"Danbury is bursting at the seams," Brown said "Other districts are looking for solutions. We have to be competitive."

This will ensure that the region is not overwhelmed by an influx of tuition-paying students that would require added costs to keep Shepaug Valley School open.

The policy also says special-needs students can pay the $7,500 tuition, but any extra costs stemming from their special needs will be at the parents' expense.

"(Board of Education member) Kelly Lott gave a good example from a business perspective," Cosentino said. "It's like airplanes or hotels: Regardless of the rate of occupancy that a flight or hotel has, there is a fixed cost to flying the plane or keeping the hotel open."

Cosentino said the region's fixed cost can't be reduced at this point. Bringing students from out of district will bolster its coffers while revitalizing the region.